Gators Wrap-up

September 25, 1988|By Tim Povtak of the Sentinel staff

Bright spots: The defensive line blocked three passes and the entire defense smothered the Bulldogs. . . . Emmitt Smith exploded once again, for a 12-yard touchdown and a 96-yard touchdown, the longest in school history. . . . Strong safety Bill Lang, from Lake Howell High School, played an excellent second half.

Lowlights: The offense, outside of Smith's two runs, struggled and could not put the game away when it had the opportunity. . . . There were far too many penalties and mental mistakes.

On the mend: Backup free safety John Spierto sprained his right ankle and is questionable for Saturday. Backup linebacker Todd Gatlin, who has been plaqued with injuries, hurt his shoulder again.

Who's next: The big one is this Saturday when the unbeaten Gators play explosive LSU at Florida Field. The winner will be looking good in the Southeastern Conference race. The loser will fall back into the pack. A victory this week and Florida will climb considerably in the Top 20 rankings.